Clarke’s Scotland Quietly Reassert Themselves with Valuable Denmark Draw

As ever, Steve Clarke was characteristically understated, acknowledging his team’s honesty and hard work in securing a crucial World Cup qualification point against Denmark in Copenhagen. He offered praise, but in measured tones, wary of hype and keenly aware of the long road ahead. Clarke’s approach is one of pragmatic realism, a refusal to get carried away, and a deep-seated belief in perspective.

The draw in Parken wasn’t just about a point; it was a strategic blow to one of Scotland’s main rivals in the group. In a relatively condensed qualifying schedule of just six games, putting Denmark on the back foot early is a significant advantage. The Danes now face a challenging trip to Greece, where they’ll likely be underdogs against an emerging Greek side that recently dispatched Scotland 3-0 at Hampden, followed by convincing wins over Bulgaria and Slovakia.

Should Greece maintain their impressive form on Monday, Denmark’s campaign could find itself in early trouble, with only one point from a possible six. Meanwhile, Scotland has the opportunity to potentially move to four points if they overcome Belarus in Budapest. While it’s still early days, the prospect of entering the next qualifying window with a strong position is undeniably encouraging.

This is a departure from the often-disappointing starts that have plagued Scotland’s World Cup qualification attempts in recent decades. In the 2018 campaign, they managed only one win in their first four games. Four years prior, two home draws effectively derailed their chances. Even further back, a loss to Macedonia in their opening match of the 2006 qualifying cycle set a negative tone that they couldn’t recover from. The pattern of early setbacks had become almost ingrained in the national psyche.

The contrast is stark. This time, Scotland is demonstrating a resilience and tactical discipline that was often lacking in previous attempts. Clarke’s team isn’t relying on flamboyant displays; instead, they’re building a foundation on grit, determination, and a clear understanding of their roles. The inclusion of Lyndon Dykes, who proved impressively combative throughout the night, and the continued faith in Grant Hanley, a stalwart defender often criticized by some, exemplify Clarke’s unwavering belief in his players.

Hanley’s performance, described by former Scotland captain Willie Miller as a “magnet to the ball,” was particularly noteworthy. Clarke’s willingness to stick with players who embody his values, even in the face of criticism, speaks volumes about his leadership. It’s a testament to the strong bond he’s forged with the squad and his commitment to building a team based on trust and mutual respect.

What’s particularly remarkable is that many of these Scotland players haven’t enjoyed ideal starts to their club seasons. Angus Gunn hadn’t played a competitive match since May, Lewis Ferguson has been largely unused by Bologna, and Che Adams’s role at Torino has been inconsistent. Even Aaron Hickey, returning from a lengthy injury layoff, delivered a standout performance, showcasing his quality and reaffirming his potential.

The situation with Andy Robertson, coping with the personal loss of his close friend and Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota, adds another layer of emotional depth to Scotland’s campaign. Robertson’s ability to channel his grief into a focused performance is a testament to his character and professionalism. The team’s collective resilience in the face of adversity is a defining characteristic of this Scotland side.

Clarke’s journey as Scotland manager has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. He’s faced criticism, endured periods of poor form, and weathered calls for his dismissal. Yet, he’s consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to bounce back, to adapt, and to instill a sense of belief in his players. His resolve is unwavering, and his commitment to the national team is unquestionable.

The recent resurgence under Clarke is a testament to his tactical acumen, his man-management skills, and his unwavering belief in the potential of Scottish football. While caution remains, there’s a growing sense of optimism that this time, Scotland might just have what it takes to finally qualify for a major tournament. The draw in Denmark was more than just a point; it was a statement of intent, a signal that Scotland is back in the game.